The youngster fell from the Splash Canyon river rapids attraction at around 2.20pm today.

She was rescued from the water but had suffered serous injuries and died shortly after being airlfted to Birmingham Children's Hospital.

Her family have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers from Staffordshire Police.

Pictures: Photo courtesy of David Charles @davecharlesF1 The scene at Drayton Manor Park after the accident.

A statement from the force said: "Following an incident at Drayton Manor Park, we can confirm that an 11-year-old girl has died this afternoon (May 9).

"Emergency services were called at 2.20pm following reports the girl had fallen from a water ride at the park."

Superintendent Carl Ratcliffe, of Staffordshire Police, said: "Specially-trained officers are supporting the girl's family at this difficult time. Our thoughts are very much with her family and friends following this tragic incident."

He added the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) had been informed of the incident.

HSE has been made aware of today&#39;s incident at #draytonmanor and making initial inquiries along with emergency services.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: "On arrival, crews discovered a girl with serious injuries who had been rescued from the water by park staff.

"Ambulance staff administered advanced life support before she was flown to Birmingham Children's Hospital with the doctor continuing treatment en-route.

"Unfortunately, shortly after arrival at hospital the girl passed away."

Gvs of Drayton Manor Theme Park and Thomas Land. 08/04/15

The family have requested that their wishes are respected at this difficult time.

The park remained open in the aftermath of the tragedy although new visitors were turned away from the gates of the Staffordshire attraction.

A statement issued by the park sad: "Further to the police statement which has been issued to yourself and your colleagues a few moments ago, it is with great sadness that we have to report that a young girl has passed away at Birmingham Children’s Hospital following an incident at one of our rides this afternoon.

"Our staff were alerted that an 11-year-old girl had entered the water.

"Trained park staff were immediately on the scene attending to the patient and West Midlands Air Ambulance arrived and airlifted her to hospital.

"We are truly shocked and devastated, and our thoughts are with her family and friends at this tremendously difficult time."